Phoenix residents are concerned about their safety as some areas are not properly maintained by the municipality. Overgrown grass on verges, open spaces, play-lots, non-pruning of overgrown trees or the removal of illegal dumping in Palmview, has left residents up in arms. Grace Moodley, a resident of Fanpalm Gardens, in Palmview, said that a play-lot in the area has not been cut for several months.
“Our homes are next to the play-lot and we’ve become vulnerable to snakes that were spotted by residents. Our children can no longer play at this play-lot as the grass is very long and has become a danger zone. It is really sad to see a great space being wasted,” added Moodley. DLC leader, Councillor Patrick Pillay, who was approached by the residents for assistance, condemned the poor service delivery. “Last week, the DLC conducted an inspection in various areas of Phoenix and was appalled at the non-performance of Parks and Gardens in executing their tasks. Parks and Gardens should know all their play-lots, grounds, open spaces and pathways and does not have to wait for anyone to complain before attending to their job,” said Councillor Pillay.
Pillay said the Covid-19 pandemic had become a common excuse for non-service delivery. “Phoenix has become a jungle suburb that is neglected by the municipality, especially Parks and Gardens. The play-lot in Fanpalm Gardens is a classic example of neglect with above knee-high grass and illegal dumping. Ratepayers are fed up with frivolous excuses and are demanding service delivery,” he said. Pillay said that his organisation will be addressing this and other service delivery issues with the acting city manager. “Residents refuse to accept excuses. They want their communities to be restored to their original states and have the right to live in a clean environment. Ratepayers are paying their rates and deserve better services,” said Pillay.
